John Barnes has warned Liverpool fans to forget about seeing any big name arrivals at Anfield this summer.

Reds chief Brendan Rodgers has been linked with moves for a number of Europe's established superstars in recent months, including Real Madrid hitman Karim Benzema.

But Barnes, 51, believes the Merseysiders won't be able to attract players like Benzema to Anfield this summer.

The Kop legend told talkSPORT: “It’s going to take time. Steven Gerrard is not there, Luis Suarez is not there and Daniel Sturridge may be injured. Fans are going to have to be patient,” the ex-England winger told Drivetime.

“The expectation levels will have to drop. It’s not so much who they need, it’s what they can get. They aren’t going to be able to go out and get a [Karim] Benzema.""Thanks for your messages. Delighted to be joining #LFC. A special club with great players.

"I will give everything to be successful."

NO CHANCE: Barnes believes Liverpool won't be able to attract the likes of Karim Benzema to Anfield [GETTY]